The leader of Somalia's Hizbul Islam insurgent, Sheikh Hassan Dahir Aweys has warned some members of his group against extorting money from civilians.

Speaking to people in Afgoye town, some 30 km west of Mogadishu, Sheikh Aweys said extortion brings bad image to the personality of the person and the group he represent, thus warning that any member found guilty will be dealt with in accordance to Islamic Law.

"Extorting money from the people will bring bad reputation to the group, I am warning that if any of the officials is found guilty will face the law,"

"Afgoye residents should not bribe officers, because doing so would damage both our reputations," he added.

He warned the people against some individuals who go around with paper work pretending to be representing the insurgent group.

"Be warned about people who go around with fake papers, demanding your signatures. This kind of things is common amongst Somalis wherever they are in this world," he said.

The 65-year old cleric urged Afgoye residents to obey and work with the administration of his group

His remarks come as he makes changes to the current Hizbul Islam administration that rules the town.